NASHUA, Iowa – Early last month, the community of Nashua was shocked to find out that Erine Willsher would no longer lead the police department as chief. At their last meeting in late July, a city council member told KIMT Willsher was not fulfilling his job duties. Now, they’re voting on who will replace him.

“I think Paul will do a wonderful job. So far, being a police officer, he’s started a lot of new projects. He’s done a lot of things for us at the mobile home park with speeders, and I think he’s an all-around good guy,” said Diane Reucher a resident of Nashua.

Diane has lived in Nashua for more than 40 years, and she says she’s excited for Paul Becthold to step up to the plate.

“He’ll be keeping the streets safe, and keep us safe. Patrolling the speeding, and just keeping eye on things. It’s a small town,” said Reucher.

Mayor, Deanne Lantow says she feels Becthold is the best fit for the community right now.

“I think he’s going to make an excellent chief. He’s very committed to the city, and he cares. I think he’s going to work out very well for us,” said Lantow.

Mayor Lantow says she’s ready to move the focus away from the recent demotion of the former chief, Willsher, and looks forward to a new beginning in Nashua.

“I’m glad that we’re finally coming to a resolution of this, and we’re going to move forward.”

Becthold has served with the Nashua police for more than 12 years. He was appointed interim chief last council meeting at the end of July.